AGLN Blog

Violence continues to erupt in Nicaragua almost two months since the first protest occurred in April. The latest march against the government’s regime, taking place on May 30th, Nicaragua's Mother’s Day, led by the "Mothers of April”, a movement of mothers whose children were killed or went missing during previous demonstrations, ended with gunmen firing into the crowd of more than 300,000 protestors. 

What was a call for justice, resulted in a reported 15 people killed, dozens injured and missing, raising the death toll of the crisis to more than 100. In addition, the government reports 20 police officers have been hurt since the start of the protests.

For background, refer to our first post on the crisis, here. 

Meanwhile, President Daniel Ortega and the Nicaraguan government at large continue to deny responsibility for any deaths or violence. Attempts at dialogue between the government and opposition groups (students, human rights groups, farmers’ movement, and business leaders), mediated by the Roman Catholic Church, have halted in result of this latest event. 

As the situation continues to evolve, the future is uncertain. Repression and violence has escalated in urban centers and citizens throughout the country continue to raise barricades to protect themselves. This measure, which started several weeks ago, was taken to pressure government to end repression. These blockades have caused the disruption of ground transportation in Nicaragua and Central America, stifling the country’s economic infrastructure. Yet, the violence continues and many remain inside their homes -- the country nearing a nationwide strike. 

For current information on the crisis, read the following articles from The Washington Post, The Atlantic and The New York Times and reports from Amnesty International: 

• Nicaragua: OAS member states must not turn their back on the victims of repression (June 5)
• At least 100 killed in Nicaragua as political violence intensifies (June 2)
• A Month of Anti-Government Protest in Nicaragua (May 31)
• Police: Nicaragua Violence Leaves 15 Dead (May 30)
• Shoot to Kill: Nicaragua's strategy to suppress support (May 29)
• Amnesty International Documents Armed Attacks in Nicaragua (May 28)

Our Nicaragua-based Fellows remain united in their efforts to achieving peace and a call to stop the violence. And they are both inspiring people to step up to the challenges, and bringing together voices that would not normally be willing to engage with one another. A reminder, if other AGLN Fellows are interested in getting connected and providing support, email Philip.Javellana@aspeninstitute.org.